Hooded scarf with combination side pockets and closure option

ABSTRACT

Hooded scarf with combination side pockets and closure option is disclosed. The synergistic use of hood, side pockets, closure apparatus, and no restriction in length allows an individual of any size/weight/arm length ergonomically correct and secure access/retrieval to and from pockets while provided hand and neck warmth, in addition to allowing greater flexibility for wear options (i.e. reversibility and styling options). The closure apparatus expands wear and fashion possibilities while eliminating aforementioned issues with dangling scarf ends (including safety) and makes an accessory design available as an apparel item.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATES

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STATEMENT REGAURDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

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REFERENECE TO SEQUENCE LISTING A TABLE OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Problem Solved: Hooded scarves with pockets positioned at the bottom restrict scarf length, consequently limiting wearing options and fashion possibilities. Limited length is required for the pockets to be comfortably accessible. Therefore, it becomes impossible to utilize the pockets and have the article function as a scarf simultaneously—wearer would have to choose between wearing the article as a scarf OR using the pockets. Even if length is restricted, positioning pockets at the bottom varies in efficiency and usefulness depending upon the height/size of the individual user and how the user is wearing the scarf. Bottom pockets are not secure and their front placement eliminates reversibility and the ability to keep the pockets functional and ergonomic. Hooded scarves that have closures and are not restricted by length but do not have pockets severely limit versatility and functionality. Omitting a closure leads to scarf ends getting in the way when bending or leaning forward, which can be a safety hazard. However, simply moving the scarf ends out of the way may cause the contents to fall out of the pockets. Removing items then wrapping scarf ends around neck to get the scarf out of the way securely negates pocket functionality. This also restricts the various ways to wear the hooded scarf (i.e. closed to the back, crossed in front, closed into the back, etc.) Therefore the fundamental problem with current design of hooded scarves is that those with closures do not have pockets, and those with pockets do not have closures, so the consumer must choose between styling and function.

Hooded scarves either have pockets located in the front and/or at the bottom or have no pockets at all. Some have a closure option but do not have pockets. As a byproduct of adding front pockets the scarf is either too short, causing the consumer to be unable to comfortably wrap the scarf around their neck to keep warm while using the pockets, or too long so the user cannot reach the pockets to use them to place things or keep warm.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The synergistic use of hood, side pockets, inside cell phone pocket, closure apparatus and no restriction in length allows an individual of any size/weight/arm length ergonomically correct and secure access/retrieval to and from pockets while provided hand and neck warmth, in addition to allowing greater flexibility for wear options (i.e. reversibility and styling options). The closure apparatus expands wear and fashion possibilities while eliminating aforementioned issues with dangling scarf ends (including safety) and makes an accessory design available as an apparel item, jacket or vest like. Also allowing the individual to purchase one item instead of multiple as it acts like a scarf, hat, gloves, jacket, vest, purse/bag etc all in one; hybrid of an apparel and accessory item.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 shows flat view of invention, numbered per section. FIG.2 shows flat view of invention, numbered per section with lead lines. FIG. 3 shows blow up of inside cell phone pocket. FIG. 4 shows snap detail on the bottom of the scarf ends. FIG. 5 shows side view of invention with lead lines. FIG. 6 shows inserted shape of side pocket. FIG.7 shows side view of invention being worn by a person with scarf ends down. FIG. 8 shows front view of invention being worn by a person with scarf ends down. FIG. 9 shows back view of the invention worn by a person with scarf ends down. FIG. 10 shows side view of invention with scarf ends snapped to the back creating a vest or jacket look and wear. FIG. 11 shows the front view of invention with scarf ends snapped to the back creating a vest or jacket look and wear. FIG. 12 shows the back view of invention with scarf ends snapped to the back creating a vest or jacket look and wear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

As stated above, hooded scarves with pockets positioned at the bottom restricts scarf length, consequently limiting wearing options and fashion possibilities. Limited length is required for the pockets to be comfortably accessible. Therefore, it becomes impossible to utilize the pockets and have the article function as a scarf simultaneously—wearer would have to choose between wearing the article as a scarf ORusing the pockets. Even if length is restricted, positioning pockets at the bottom varies in efficiency and

usefulness depending upon the height/size of the individual user and how the user is wearing the scarf. Bottom pockets are not secure and their front placement eliminates reversibility and the ability to keep the pockets functional and ergonomic. Hooded scarves that have closures and are not restricted by length but do not have pockets severely limit versatility and functionality. Omitting a closure leads to scarf ends getting in the way when bending or simply leaning forward, which can be a safety hazard. However, simply moving the scarf ends out of the way may cause the contents to fall out of the pockets. Removing items then wrapping scarf ends around neck to get scarf out of the way securely negates the pocket functionality. This also restricts the various ways you can wear the hooded scarf (i.e. closed to the back, crossed in front, closed into the back, etc.) Therefore the fundamental problem with current design of hooded scarves is that those with closures do not have pockets, and those with pockets do not have closures, so the consumer must choose between fashion and function. The invention claimed here solves this problem.

Positioning pockets on the side renders the piece reversible permitting greater wear possibilities while simultaneously keeping the pocket contents more secure. The side pocket is more ergonomic, comfortable and natural. The scarf section can be made to virtually any length so that the scarf is always able to function as a scarf and always capable of wrapping about the neck while retaining pockets. The closure apparatus creates greater wear and fashion flexibility (i.e. around one shoulder, under the arm, as a vest, etc.) The synergy of hood, scarf, pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a functional vest when closed from the back making the accessory also an apparel piece. The closure adds additional safety to the design, eliminating hanging scarf ends that can get caught in moving machinery, bicycle spokes, car doors, etc., while offering functionality with pockets and reversibility all at once.

The claimed invention differs from what currently exists. The unique design synergy of hood, scarf, side pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a vastly more fully functional piece. Unlike any other article of its general type, length is not restricted creating far greater wearability and fashion flexibility, a closure offers greater pocket content security and enhanced wearing flexibility and better accessory value through more fully integrated elements, and a side pocket creates the option for ergonomic reversible wear, enhancing its value as a fashion accessory and apparel item.

This invention is an improvement on what currently exists. The unique design synergy of hood, scarf, side pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a vastly more fully functional piece. Unlike any other article of its general type, length is not restricted creating far greater wearability and fashion flexibility, a closure offers greater pocket content security and enhanced wearing flexibility and better accessory value through more fully integrated elements, and a side pocket creates the option for ergonomic reversible wear, enhancing its value as a fashion accessory and apparel item.

When using the pockets on a hooded scarf you can only wear the item with the scarf down otherwise your items will fall out or be at high risk to fall out. It limits the length of the scarf and cannot be adapted to varying individual user height/weight/arm length and paradoxically, cannot be used as a scarf (i.e. wrapped about the neck). Lacking the closure apparatus, wearing options are restricted and the scarf ends interfere with daily activities and, in some circumstances, safety. Having a hooded scarf with a closure apparatus only takes away from the item's usability with nowhere to place belongings. Front pockets eliminate the option for reversibility, limiting the item's flexibility as a fashion accessory or apparel item.

The synergistic use of hood, side pockets, closure apparatus, and no restriction in length allows an individual of any size/weight/arm length ergonomically correct and secure access/retrieval to and from pockets while provided hand and neck warmth, in addition to allowing greater flexibility for wear options (i.e. reversibility and styling options). The closure apparatus expands wear and fashion possibilities while eliminating aforementioned issues with dangling scarf ends (including safety) and makes an accessory design available as an apparel item.

The Version of the Invention Discussed Here Includes:

1. side pockets (hidden or not, with or without closure)

2. scarf closure (snaps, button, zipper, Velcro, hook and eye or permanent)

3. a hood

4. a scarf (two separate or one long)

5. inside pocket (hidden or visible)

Relationship Between the Components:

The (1.) pockets can be placed anywhere along the outside edge of the (4.) scarf from where the hood meets the scarf to the bottom of the (4.) scarf. The desired position is anywhere within 35″ from where the hood meets the scarf, but is not limited to this area (1.) Pockets can be inserted or sewn on the outside or on top of the (4.) scarf at any width of the (4.) scarf and in any pocket width or size. The shape of the (1.) pocket includes but is not limited to a rounded end, a square, a circle, front (1.) pockets mimicking a sweatshirt shape, pouch (1.) pocket shape etc. The (1.) pocket can be made then inserted in between the (4.) scarf panels or sewn on the (4.) scarf itself making the (2.) pocket made from the (4.) scarf; placing single or more stitches across the top of the (4.) scarf leaving an opening for a (1.) pocket. The (1.) pockets can be closed or open. (1.) Pocket closures include, but are not limited to, a zipper, buttons, Velcro, snaps, etc. The (3.) hood can have a drawstring mimicking a hooded sweatshirt or have a closure, single or more, to allow the consumer to pull the (3.) hood closer to their face for warmth. The (4.) scarf can be one long piece, mimicking a standard (4.) scarf, then (3.) hood sewn in the middle of the (4.) scarf so that the (4.) scarf ends fall evenly down the front of the consumer or sewn offset so the (4.) scarf ends hang asymmetrically down the front of the consumer. The (3.) hood can be sewn on to the edge or placed in the middle or opposite edge of the scarf. The (3.) hood can be attached permanently or have a detachable option to take the (3.) hood off. The detached style (3.) hood can be on the single (4.) scarf style or on the two separate attached to the sides of the (3.) hood (4.) scarf style. In the case of the two separate attached (4.) scarf style, whereas the (4.) scarf ends are attached separately to the (3.) hood sides, the (4.) scarf ends may also have an attachment option so that the (4.) scarf will make one long (4.) scarf when attached to each other, simulating a standard (4.) scarf. The (4.) scarf can be any length. The (4.) scarf can be sewn shut on the sides or left open. The (2.) closure can be placed anywhere along the (4.) scarf, with emphasis to the bottom of the (4.) scarf, with a single closure, (ex. a button, snap) or the closure can be the width of the scarf with any closure (ex. buttons, snaps, zippers, Velcro, etc.) (2.) Closure can also be sewn shut permanently without the option to open or close. The (4.) scarf can be closed on the sides or left open. This includes but is not limited to partially sewn on the back or front sides of the (4.) scarf. The inside (5.) pocket can be sewn on top or inserted. The (2.) closure allows the user to get the (4.) scarf out of the way and simulate a vest with when snapped to the back and using the (1.) pockets in the front. The inserted (5.) inside pocket can be open or closed. The closure can be, but is not limited to, a single closure or multiple closures including, but not limited to, snaps, buttons, zipper, Velcro, etc. The hooded scarf can be made in any material including both synthetic and natural, but not limited to, cotton, polyester, wool, leather, suede, waterproof, or any combination of material or blended material. 

1. A functional headgear for a wider range of people than prior inventions or art of its kind comprised of the combination of the following: Side pockets The pockets can be of any size or shape including but is not limited to a rounded end, a square, a circle, front pockets mimicking a sweatshirt shape, pouch pocket shape etc., pockets can be hidden by placing the pockets into the scarves' back seam or not hidden by placing the pocket on top of the scarf or by adding stitches across the top of the scarf leaving an opening for a pocket toward the back so the pockets are built into the scarf, all options are at arms reach with or without closures to the pockets allowing a safe place to put belongings with more security and allowing any size person to wear due to there not being a specific scarf end length where pockets are usually placed on items of its kind a new invention cannot place more or less pockets to be different from the invention Scarf closure Any number of closures or closure of any kind placed at the bottom of scarf or anywhere below the side pockets including but not limited to snaps, button, zipper, Velcro, hook and eye or permanent closure allowing the user to move the scarf ends out of the way by snapping to the back of the wearers body to simulate a jacket or vest or to be put on with scarf hanging to the back with permanently closed scarf ends The combination of side pockets and scarf with closure, whether permanently closed or with closure option, makes the invention different than any of its kind by becoming a hybrid between apparel and accessory similar to a jacket or vest A hood The hood can have a drawstring mimicking a hooded sweatshirt or have a closure, single or more of any kind allowing the consumer to pull the hood closer to their face for warmth and making it easier to keep hood on wearers head the hood can be detachable including but not limited to by way of snaps, buttons, Velcro, buttons, hook and eye, etc. A scarf Two separate scarf ends or one long scarf similar to a standard scarf then attached to hood permanently or adding closure options to made hood detachable each option can be attached at the sides of the hood for two separate scarf ends or scarf ends can be made attachable with closures including but not limited to snaps, buttons, Velcro or on the top or bottom of the scarf creating one single scarf piece where then a detachable hood can be added, with no length requirements allowing it to be made at any length while still keeping pockets functional due to placement scarf ends can fall evenly down the front of wearer or asymmetrical the scarf ends can be sewn shut Inside cell phone pocket or general pocket Placed into or between the scarf ends making it hidden or placed on top making it visible, with out without pocket closure this optional does not affect the new functionality of an item of its kind but a new invention cannot place more or less pockets to be different from the invention
 2. A more wearable headgear than prior inventions or art of its kind due to: Length is not limited People of different height, weight, and variable arm, torso and leg length are not restricted because the length of scarf ends can be any length and wearer can still use pockets due to the placement always at arm reach Snap closure option or permanent closure option The optional closure allows for the invention to be styled over 20 ways, it can be manipulated more than any of its kind due to having the ability to snap after styling or before styling while still keeping the pockets fully functional due to the side pocket placement permanently closed option is more restrictive with styling but still more functional than any of its kind due to pocket placement Reversibility the invention can be worn inside out or on either side and still have full function due to placement of side pockets, closure options and how it is made Fabric The invention can be made of waterproof fabric allowing it to be worn in rain and substitute a raincoat or umbrella the invention can be made in any material including both synthetic and natural, but not limited to, cotton, polyester, wool, leather, suede, or any combination of material or blended material including hypoallergenic fabric can be worn with a variety of different outfits and for a wide range of people
 3. A safer headgear than prior inventions or art of its kind due to: Snaps closure option or permanent closure option User can move scarf ends out of the way when needed with a variety of closure options including but not limited to snaps, buttons, zippers, or permanent closure options while still keeping the pockets functional and items safe in pockets How The Invention Works: (1.) Pockets allow a place to securely put contents. The (2.) closure at the bottom allows the consumer options with styling and makes the scarf safe to wear. (3.) The hood allows head protection, warmth and styling. The (4.) scarf allows for warmth and styling. The (5.) inside pocket allows for easy access to personal items and is ideal for phones when listening thru a headset or headphones. Placing the (1.) pockets on the side allows for one size to fit all body types because there is no limit on length. (1.) Side pockets allow the hooded scarf to be reversible while also remaining comfortable and functional. The combination of (1.) side pockets with a (2.) closed end (optional or permanent closure) allows the consumer to get the (4.) scarf out of the way for comfort, safety and styling, when desired while keeping the pockets functional. This also transforms the hooded scarf into an apparel garment simulating a vest or jacket with functional pockets. How To Make The Invention: When creating a double layered, 4 part hooded scarf: A. One hood pattern is sewn to one scarf pattern; repeat for all 4 sides leaving you with 4 combo hooded scarf parts. B. Two hooded scarf combos are then sewn together; this is repeated for the other two combos creating two parts. C. The pocket sides are sewn together preparing for insert leaving the top edge opened with seam allowance to sew into the scarf. D. The hood and scarf combos are then sewn together to the point where the pocket will be inserted on the backside of the scarf section, creating one piece. E. One pocket side is then sewn to one side of the scarf, repeated for the other side F. The rest of the scarf section is sewn shut on the sides. G. The closure is then inserted at the bottom of the scarf then sewn shut or the scarf is sewn shut and the closure is placed on top of the finished garment, this is done to both sides of the scarf allowing it to close and open to be worn multiple ways including to the back as a vest and to get scarf ends out of the way safely. If not using a closure and permanently closing the bottom the ends are sewn together at step D. This construction will vary depending on what style is desired. Construction is similar in that when creating an inserted pocket the backside where the pocket is inserted needs to be left open in order to insert the pocket. When sewing a pocket onto the top of the scarf the pocket needs to be sewn on top of the scarf before being sewn completely together. This can be done on both sides of the scarf or one side. Top sewn pocket openings can be angled to the back or to the top. When sewing a standard scarf style same steps are needed except for the hood being attached to the scarf section. With this option the hood can be sewn to the finished scarf. The detachable hood is made the same except the hood is not attached; fasteners are placed on the bottom of hood that corresponds with the fasteners on the scarf. The side pockets are necessary to make the item fully functional. Placing them on the side is necessary for reversibility and to make it “one size fits all” while allowing the consumer use of all its functions. Having a closure with an option to attach is optional; having a permanent closure will still allow the pockets to be functional just with fewer styling options. The pockets can be placed on the outside as long as they are on the sides to make reversible and pockets still usable. The pockets can be closed with a closure or without, closure include but are not limited to (zipper, buttons, Velcro, etc.). The bottom can be permanently closed or closed with a closure than can be fastened and unfastened. The pockets can be placed at any desired height from the top of the scarf section to the bottom on the sides of the scarf. The scarf does not need to have a closure but the pockets are on the side, inserted or sewn on top in the side position, not outside bottom. How To Use The Invention: The user closes the bottom of the scarf ends before placing on head or body. The hood is placed on the user's head with the attached ends on the user's backside. The user then inserts each arm behind each side of the scarf bringing the scarf to the front of the body leaving the attached end in the back thereby turning the item into a vest apparel piece, placing hangs in pockets. Or the user leaves the item unsnapped, places the hood on the head from the front inserting hands into the side pockets or when needing the scarf ends out of the way the user can grab the ends of the scarf and reach to the back to snap securely in the back or remove the hooded scarf and snap then place on body, repeating the first steps. 